Laccase-catalyzed synthesis and antioxidant property of poly(catechin)

Catechin was oxidatively polymerized by laccase in a mixture of a polar organic solvent and buffer to give a new class of flavonoid polymers. Myceliophthora laccase showed high catalytic activity for the polymerization. Using a mixed solvent of acetone and pH 5 acetate buffer efficiently produced the polymer. Under the selected conditions, DMF-soluble polymers were obtained in good yields. Effects of reaction parameters on the yield, solubility, and molecular weight of the polymer have been systematically investigated. A radical species was detected in the polymer by ESR spectroscopy. The polymers showed greatly amplified superoxide scavenging activity and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity compared with monomeric catechin.